Lotte Himart’s private-label vacuum sales thrive amid inflation

Single One UV Sterilization Station Vacuum Cleaner. (Lotte Himart)

Lotte Himart Co. is aiming towards strong sales of its private-label appliances, bolstered by the recent success of its vacuum cleaner.

The company announced Thursday that its Single One UV Sterilization Station Vacuum, launched in mid-August 2024, sold out its initial stock of 2,000 units within a month. This sales figure is three times that of similar station vacuums.

Priced in the high 200,000 won ($150) range, the Single One vacuum is about 60 percent cheaper than comparable models from major brands. It features an automatic dustbin closure, which is uncommon for products in this price range, and comes with a three-year warranty. Lotte Himart noted that half of the buyers were in their 20s and 30s, with the product appealing to practical, young consumers in one- and two-person households.

Single One is Lotte Himart’s private label brand, launched in May to appeal to cost-conscious shoppers as inflation rises. The company has been expanding its in-house offerings, including a 200,000 won refrigerator launched in May 2024 and a 150-liter standing kimchi refrigerator launched earlier this week priced at around 500,000 won. Lotte Himart also plans to launch a smokeless, easy-to-clean grill by the end of the year while also completing the rebranding of its private label line by then.